Control system for photographic apparatus

ABSTRACT

Photographic apparatus and a control system therefore which functions to carry out a series of operational events in response to the temporary, manual depression of a start switch. The control system incorporates an electronic latch which is activated only after select initial ones of these operational events are carried out. Additionally, the control system incorporates a feature preventing an unwanted repetition of photographic cycles as a consequence of inadvertant continued depression of the start switch before and beyond the termination of a given photographic cycle.

O Umted States Patent [1 1 1 1 3,744,385 Burgarella et a]. July 10, 1973 CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC 3,487,759 1/1970 Fahlenberg 95/53 EA APPARATUS 2,759,404 8/1956 Bishop et a1... 93/31 EL 1,963,107 6/1934 Walters 95/42 [75] Inventors: John P. Burgarella, Sudbury; Peter ghgg z fi ifi g fi i}figgg Primary Examiner-Robert P. Greiner Attorney-Brown and Mikulka and Gerald L. Smith [73] Assignee: Polaroid Corporation, Cambridge,

Mass.

[57] ABSTRACT [22] Filed: Dec. 29, 1971 Photographic apparatus and a control system therefore PP 213,317 which functions to carry out a series of operational events in response to the temporary, manual depression 52 us. (:1. 95 11 R, 95 14, 95/31 EL, Of a Start switch- The Control System incorporates an 95/42 95 /53 EA electronic latch which is activated only after select ini- 51 1m. (:1. G03b 17/53, G03b 19/12 ones these mammal events are Carried 581 Field of Search 95/11 R, 13, 14, Addimmally, the System inwrporates feature 95/31 EL, l9, 39 42, 53 E A preventing an unwanted repetition of photographic cycles as a consequence of inadvertant continued depres- [56] References Cited sion of the start switch before and beyond the termina- UNITED STATES PATENTS tion of a given photographic cycle. 2,705,907 4/1955 Caps et al. 95/14 34 Claims, 6 Drawing Figures MOTOR CONTROL PAIENIE JUL 1 0191s smnnrq INVENTORS JOHN I? BURGARELLA PETER I? GARCIA BY and RICHARD C. KEE fi/wunz w W A TORNE 8w welt K r@ 0 w 91 E PATENTED JUL 1 ("975 3. 744.385

8 3 Bf I72 ExPOsuRE ExPOsuRE VIEWING MECHANISM PLANE FOCUSING BLADEs OPEN BLOCKED DE sTART OPTIONAL.

CYCLE EXPOSURE /-|74 ABORT MECHANISM BLADEs cLOsE AcTIvATE -l76 REFLEX COMPONENT DRIVE DELAY LATCH I80 ACTIVATED COMMENCE ExPOsuRE EXPOSURE MODE -I82 cLOsE ExPosuRE x MECHANISM BLADEs [I86 PRocEss COCK FILM uNIT REFLEX COMPONENT LATCH OPEN EXPOSURE use DEAcTIvATED MECHANISM BLADES MODE INVENTORS JOHN F! BURGARELLA PETER P cARcIA y and RICHARD c. KEE fi/wwn ATTORNEYS PATENIEU Jul 1 0 sum I Bf 9 EvENT l 3 6 54 C SOLENOID OFF s 0 INTEGRATION TRIGGER OUTPUT STATE-284 LOW (286) DELAY OFF MOTOR LOW GATE INPuT a LOW GATE INPUT b LOW GATE INPUT 0 LOW GATE INPUT d LOW I PHOTOGRAPHIC CYCLE GATE A GATE 8 GATE 0 SOLENOID8 MoToR POWER DR. CONTROL EVENT SEQUENCE a b c I, u 0 t 0 b d sum SWITCH CLOSED. FIRST LATCH ENERGIzATIoN o o o I o o o o o o I sTATE SHUTTER CLOSES s u osEs,MoToR OIOOQOOOIOO ENERGIzED REFLEX COMPONENT. RIsEs, s4 OPENS-SECOND o I o o o o 0 o I l I LATCH ENERGIzATIoN srATE s oPENs DELAY INTERVAL GBMNIENGES 0I000000III COMMENCE EXPOSURE o 0 I o o l I 0 o l I TRIGGER-286 THRESHOLD REACHED IoI I I I0 IoII SHUTTER CLOSES,S2 CLOSE$.(DCKlNG-$ IllO I IoIIIo CLOSES.

s CLOSES I I o o I o o l I o I F I G. 5 BY INVENIORS JOHN R BURGARELLA PETER P. cARcIA RICHEFQS C KEE M a6 mzzi ATTORNEYS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PHOTOGRAPI-IIC APPARATUS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Photographic cameras of a hand-held variety have been proposed wherein the procedure for obtaining a photograph of a scene requires only that the operator frame and focus, following which a start button is depressed to cause the control system of the camera to commence a fully automated photographic cycle, the terminus of which witnesses the delivery of a fully processed print.

Preferably, when in a folded condition, these cameras are of thin and compact dimension for ease of cartying, while incorporating a reflex viewing system to optimize framing and focusing. A version of a reflex viewing system suited for use in such cameras is described in [1.8. Pat. entitled, Reflex Camera, by E. H. Land, No. 3,672,281.

The photographic systems embodied within such automatic cameras require the use of a multi-event control process in which a film unit positioned at an exposure plane is secured from light both during procedures of viewing or framing and focusing a scene as well as during the performance of control operations converting the camera from one operational mode to another. For instance, a reflex component is retained against the exposure plane of the camera, thereby blocking light from reaching a film unit when viewing and focusing procedures are carried out through an open shutter or exposure mechanism. In the course of a photographic cycle, this protective positioning of the reflex component is terminated as the component is moved into anexposure position altering the optical path of the camera. During this conversion, the exposure chamber and the film unit contained therewithin are secured by an automated procedure wherein the shutter or exposure mechanism is retained in a closed status to block the optical path of the camera. When the reflex component is properly seated, the camera assumes an exposure mode configuration permitting an automatically controlled exposure interval to ensue.

Following the automatically regulated interval during which a film unit is exposed, the exposure chamber of the camera is again secured by retaining the exposure mechanism in a light blocking position while the noted reflex component is returned to a position securing the exposure plane. Automatic processing of an exposed film unit may take place during this conversion of the camera to a viewing and focusing mode. Once the exposure plane is secured by the reflex component, the shutter is returned to fully open condition in readiness for a next succeeding photographic cycle.

To enhance the convenience of operation of the camera, only a momentary depression of a start button positioned thereon should be needed to cause the camera to carry out a complete photographic cycle. Any electronic latching feature used to perform this function assuring cycle continuity must also be capable of quenching or shutting down the electrically powered system of the camera following each cycle.

Further, both to prevent inadvertent firing of the system causing an attendant undesired commitment to completion of the cycle, and to provide an operator option to abort a cycle without film loss at least during early operational control events, the latch should be capable of being manually deactivated. The latter operator option provides for a convenient monitoring of camera performance, for instance, to assure the presence of an adequate power supply.

Another desirable feature for such automated cameras resides in the provision of an overriding function deactivating the latching feature should the start button be held down throughout and following a photographic cycle. Such a feature would prevent the inadvertent generation of a succeeding photographic cycle. With the arrangement, an operator would be required to release the start button in order to take another picture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is addressed to photographic apparatus and a control system therefore which enjoys the capability of carrying out a series of control events of predetermined order in response to the temporary depression of a start switch. Particularly useful with compact, fully automatic cameras, the invention features an electronic latch having a select delay characteristic. With this characteristic, the control arrangement of the invention provides a camera operator with the opportunity to manually abort a photographic cycle. This aborting option may be carried out during a select introductory portion of a cycle without affecting an otherwise exposed film unit.

Another feature of the invention resides in a provision for preventing an unwanted repetition of photographic cycles as a consequence of inadvertent continued depression of a start switch before and beyond the termination of such a cycle.

In one embodiment of the invention, the latching arrangement is incorporated within a fully automatic camera having a reflex viewing and focusing system. The latter system utilizes a reflex component which is moved between a position securing a film unit positioned at an exposure plane from unwanted illumination and a position re-orienting the optical path of the camera for purposes of exposing the film unit. During movement of this component, the shutter of the camera is closed to secure the exposure chamber thereof. The latching arrangement of the invention is activated for continuously carrying out a given cycle in conjunction with the movement of the reflex component away from the noted securing position. Consequently, a camera operator enjoys the option of aborting any given exposure cycle until such time as a film unit may be jeopardized by the movement of the reflex component away from its securing position.

Another feature and object of the invention is to provide photographic apparatus in the form of a fully automatic camera incorporating a latch arrangement operative to assume a first energization state when a start switch of the camera is actuated and to assume a second energization state in response to the conversion of the optical path of the camera by the reflex component, the second energization state serving to commit the automatic camera to complete a photographic cycle. Should the camera operator depress the start switch throughout and beyond the termination of a given photographic cycle, the latch arrangement of the invention reverts only to its first energization state, thereby permitting the automatic camera to refrain progressing through a next sequential photographic cycle.

Another object and feature of the invention is to provide a fully automatic camera incorporating an exposure mechanism or shutter which is energized to block the optical path thereof. The camera utilizes a reflex viewing and focusing system having a reflex component which moves from a position securing a film unit at an exposure plane to a position orienting the optical path of the camera for exposing the film unit. A cycle phase switch is positioned within the camera for actuation in correspondence with the movement of the reflex component away from and into the noted securing position. The camera incorporates a latching feature which is selectively delayed throughout an initial period when the exposure mechanism is energized to block the optical path of the camera and until the reflex component is actuated to move from its securing position. As the reflex component moves from its securing position, the noted cycle phase switch is actuated to activate the latch to cause the camera to progress through all of the operational events defining a photographic cycle. This same latch serves to de-energize the control system of the camera at the termination of a photographic cycle when the reflex component is returned into its securing position from its exposure position. Upon such return, the noted cycle phase switch is again actuated to signal the latch arrangement to de-energize the control system of the camera. With such de-energization, the noted exposure mechanism is de-energized to provide an open shutter condition for viewing and focusing attendant with a next succeeding photographic cycle.

Other objects of the invention will in part be obvious and will in part appear hereinafter. The invention accordingly comprises the apparatus and system possessing the construction, combination of elements and arrangement of parts which are exemplified in the following detailed disclosure. For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a pictorial view of a fully automatic handheld camera incorporating the latching features of the instant invention, the view having portions shown in phantom or broken away to reveal internal structure;

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary plan view of an exposure mechanism incorporated in the camera ,of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a block logic diagram showing the sequence of events occurring during a photographiclcycle of the camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a control circuit as used in conjunction with the control system of the camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a truth table or schedule of operational events performed by the control system of the camera of FIG. 1, showing in logic form the input and output status of multi-gate functions incorporated within the circuit of FIG. 4; and

FIG. 6 is an energization status chart for various components of the circuit of FIG. 4 as they operate throughout a photographic cycle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring to FIG. 1, a fully automatic camera incorporating the features of an instant invention is portrayed generally at 10. In the course of asingle photographic cycle, the components of camera 10 are automatically re-arranged from positions defining a viewing and focusing mode to orientations establishing an exposure mode, following which the initial viewing and focusing mode is re-established and an exposed film unit is automatically processed. The operational events establishing these mode conversions are sequentially carried out'in response to a momentary depression of a singular start button 12 mounted within the forward face of an exposure housing 14. Exposure housing 14 is the forwardmost of a grouping of mutually pivoted or articulated housing components including a rear wall 16, forward wall 18 and base member 20. These components are pivotally associated with base member 20 so as to be foldable thereinto in nesting fashion. When so folded from the erected configuration shown, the camera 10 assumes a thin and compact shape suiting it to be conviently carried in the pocket of a garment. The specific hinge connections providing for the articulated structure, while not being visible in the figure, are positioned at axes 22, 24, 26 and at the lower rear portion of exposure housing 14. When erected for making an exposure, rear wall 16, forward wall 18 and exposure housing 14 combine in conjunction with an opaque flexible bellows, a portion of fragment of which is illustrated at 28, to define an exposure chamber generally depicted at 30.

A film supply for camera 10 is provided by a disposable film retaining cassette 32 positioned within base member 20. Cassette 32 is removably positioned against an innerframe, a portion of which is shown at 34. Innerframe 34 is located at and defines the lower surface of exposure chamber 30. Formed having an upward facing rectangular film frame opening defined by a ridge 36, cassette 32 retains a stacked assemblage of film units. The uppermost one of these film units 38 is biased against the bottom of film frame ridge 36, a position coinciding with the exposure plane of camera 10.

Incorporating a highly refined viewing and focusing system, the camera 10 operates in a modified reflex fashion, being convertible between viewing and exposure operational modes by a reflex assembly including a somewhat planar reflex reflecting component 40. Shown in solid line fashion at an intermediate position during a transition from a viewing-focusing mode to an exposure mode of operation, the component 40 is movable during a photographic cycle from a position shown in phantom at 40' representing its viewing-focusing mode orientation to a position shown in phantom 40 representing its exposure operational mode orientation. Movement between the viewing-focusing and exposure mode positions illustrated in phantom is pivotal, the component 40 being coupled to a rearward portion of inner frame 34 by hinge connections 46 and 48.

Fabricated of a material opaque to light, reflex component 40 serves a dual function when in its viewingfocusing mode position at 40. In particular, when at the noted 40' position, component '40 extends over and secures or seals the film frame opening defined by ridge 36 of cassette 32. Component 40 additionally is structured to support a viewing surface 50 on its upwardly facing side.

When oriented for viewing and focusing purposes, the components of camera 10 establish an optical path extending from a taking or objective lens assembly mounted within exposure housing 14 at 52, through an open exposure mechanism shown generally at 54, thence to a mirror (not shown) positioned at the inner side of rear wall 16 and thence to viewing surface 50 positioned on the upward surface of component 40. Viewing surface 50 is configured having a texture and optical design facilitating the focusing of the image of the scene to be photographed. This image may be viewed by the camera operator through a collapsible optical entrance assembly depicted generally at 56. A configuration suited for viewing surface 50 is described and claimed in a copending application for US. Pat. application, Ser. No. 83,030, filed Oct. 22, 1970, by Nathan Gold, entitled, Reflective Imaging Apparatus, and assigned in common herewith, while the assembly 56 and its related internal components are described in detail and claimed in a copending application for U.S. Patent by James G. Baker, filed Dec. 15, 1970, entitled, Reflex Camera and Viewing Device, Ser. No. 98,356, and assigned in common herewith.

To enhance the viewing and focusing performance of the camera when in its viewing-focusing operational mode, exposure mechanism 54 must be operative not only to remain open during this operational mode, but also to establish an aperture opening of maximum available size. Mechanism 54 is ideally suited for performing under this operational criteria and is described in more detail and claimed in a US. Pat. entitled, Exposure Control System, by V. K. Eloranta, No. 3,641,889.

Referring additionally to FIG. 2, exposure mechanism 54 is seen to comprise two blades or elements 60 and 62 which slideably ride across housing 14 in a track (not shown). Each blade, 60 and 62, is formed having a teardrop-shaped aperture opening shown respectively at 64 and 66. Additionally, the blades are formed having secondary openings shown respectively at 68 and 70 which move cooperatively before the light detecting elements of a photosensing network positioned behind an entrance optical assembly 72.

Openings 64 and 66 of respective blades 60 and 62 are mounted for movement across the optical path of the camera as it is established at taking lens 52. Depending upon the position of blades 60 and 62, openings 64 and 66 symmetrically overlap to define selectively varying aperture sizes. Secondary openings 68 and 70 are configured in correspondence with the contours of respective openings 64 and 66. These openings also move in mutual symmetry over the optical path of the light sensing network.

Blades 60 and 62 move in the noted mutual symmetry as a result of their connection with a walking beam as shown at 74. Walking beam 74 is formed having a centrally disposed hub portion 76 which is journalled for rotation about an upstanding stud (not shown) extending from the rearward portion of exposure control housing 14. Elongate slots, as at 78 and 80, are formed in the outward tip portions of walking beam 74 for the purpose of providing connection with pins 82 and 84 extending, respectively, from blades 60 and 62.

Thus interconnected, the blades 60 and 62 move simultaneously and in correspondence with each other to define a continuous progression of symmetrically configured variable aperture openings over the camera optical path at taking lens 52 as well as over the light sensing network optical path at 72.

Walking beam 74 is biased for rotation toward a terminal position. This bias is derived from a spring 86, the central portion of which is wound about hub 76. The movable end 88 of spring 86 is configured for biasing contact against walking beam 74, while its stationary end 90 is configured to abut against a pin 92 extending from a rear portion of exposure housing 14.

With spring 86 so connected, the exposure mechanism is biased for moving blades 60 and 62 into a normally open orientation wherein openings 64 and 66, as well as 68 and cooperate to define widest available apertures. This fully open condition of mechanism 54 is shown in FIG. 2.

Movement of blades 60 and 62 from their normally open orientation permitting viewing and focusing into a closed orientation blocking the passage of light along the optical path of the camera is carried out by a tractive electromagnetic drive present as a solenoid mounted within exposure housing 14 upon a bracket as at 102. Solenoid 100 is designed having an internally disposed cylindrical plunger or armature 104 which retracts inwardly within an excitation winding upon energization thereof. Plunger 104 is connected to walking beam 74 by a comb-shaped connector 106 slideably fitted over a pin 108 extending from beam 74.

When solenoid 100 is'energized to retract plunger 104, walking beam 74 is rotated rapidly against the bias of spring 86 to move blades 60 and 62 into the fully closed orientation shown in FIG. 1. Note in FIG. 1 that the optical path of the camera as defined through taking lens 52 is completely blocked, thereby securing exposure chamber 30 from the presence of scene light.

During a viewing focusing operational mode, when spring 86 holds blades 60 and 62 in a terminal position defining maximum aperture, reflex component 40 is held in its light securing position 40' by an actuator system which operates through the interaction of drive springs (not shown) normally biasing component 40 into its elevated position 40" with a motor driven latching arrangement. Described in detail and claimed in a copending application for US. Patent by E. H. Land, I. Blinow, and V. K. Eloranta, entitled, Reflex Camera, Ser. No. 134,733, filed Apr. 16, 1971, and assigned in common herewith, the actuator system utilizes the output of a motor to regulate a mechanical control linkage including a ram 122 by selectively driving an elongate, thin gear train, certain components of which are shown generally at 124 extending along one side of camera 10. Gear train 124 includes one reduction ratio circuit terminating in a phase control cam 126 which is rotatably driven through one revolution during the course of a single photographic cycle. Cam 126 operates in conjunction with a cam follower 128 mounted upon the inwardly facing side of elongate ram 122. Ram 122, in turn, is slideably positioned along the outer face of gear train 124 and is driveably connected to an input bell crank 130. Bell crank 130 is coupled into hinge assembly 46 through the noted drive springs which continually bias-reflex component 40 to pivot about hinges 46 and 48 into position 40" abutting the innerface of rear wall 16. This drive spring as well as other associated linkages required to provide this upward bias are described in detail in the noted application for patent, Ser. No. 134,733.

Through controlled, selective energization of motor 120, the cooperating cam 126 and cam follower 128 serve to retain reflex component 40 in position 40 when the camera 10 is in its viewing-focusing mode. When so retained, cam 126 is in a radial orientation wherein it holds follower 128 and associated ram 122 at a terminal rearward position. An energization of motor 120 early in a given photographic cycle causes the gear train to rotate cam 126 to a position whereat follower 128 releases from follower contact therewith,

permitting ram 122 to be driven by the drive springs of the camera to a terminal forward position and, as a consequence, simultaneously permitting reflex component 40 to be driven into its exposure mode position 40". During this mode transition, exposure mechanism 54 assumes the fully closed condition shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 also reveals a solid line representation of reflex component 42 at a position near to its contact with rear wall 16. Note, that follower 128 is off of the contact surface of cam 126 thereby providing its free forwardly directed movement.

As ram 122 commences forward movement in conjunction with the release of reflex component 40 from its position 40, an inwardly extending tab 132 releases from engagement with a resilient leaf 134 of a switch identified generally as S Switch S additionally includes'a resilient leaf 136 which is supported along with leaf 134 from an insulative base 138 fixed to base member 20. Accordingly, the contacts 134 and 136 of switch S are opened in correspondence with the initial movement of component 40 from its position 40'. As reflex component 40 somewhat closely approaches its seated position at 40", tab 132 contacts leaf 140 of another switch depicted generally at S Leaf 140 is normally in contact with leaf 142 and is supported along with contact 142 from an insulative base 144 also fixed to base member 20. It may be noted, therefore, that the contacts of switch S are opened when reflex component 40 approaches its seated position 40".

Looking again to FIG. 2, another switch identified generally as S is shown positioned within exposure housing 14 so as to be actuated in response to the attainment by blades 60 and 62 of a fully closed position. Switch S is formed having resilient leaves 146 and 148 which are supported from an insulative base 150. The switch is so positioned such than when walking beam 74 is rotated to close blades 60 and 62, an insulative ring 152 positioned upon pin 82 urges leaf 146 into contact with leaf 148.

Returning to FIG. 1, when reflex component 40 reaches position 40" exposure mode performance ensues with he de-energization of solenoid 100 to release walking beam 74 for rotation under the bias of spring 86. As walking beam 74 rotates and a progressively enlarging aperture opening is defined by blades 60 and 62, the optical path of camera is re-oriented to extend from taking lens 52 through exposure mechanism 54, thence to a mirror 42 positioned on the downward facing side of component 40, thence to the exposure plane and uppermost film unit 38. An exposure is terminated with the re-energization of solenoid 100 to block the optical path, which energization continues until camera 10 has re-assumed its viewing-focusing mode orientation.

With exposure chamber 30 secured by the closure of blades 60 and 62, motor 120 is re-energized to drive gear train 124, thereby rotating cam 126. As cam 126 is rotated, contact is re-asserted with follower 128 to drive ram 122 rearwardly and cock reflex component 40 into its viewing mode position 40'. Simultaneously with this cocking activity, a second reduction circuit within gear grain 124 functions to drive the uppermost one of a pair of processing rolls 160 and 162. Connection between the upper processing roll 160 and gear train 124 is made at a drive pinion 164. During a cocking procedure, a pick mechanism (not shown) urges uppermost film unit 38 from its position within cassette 32 through an egress slot 44 and into the bite or point of contact between rolls 160 and 162. Described in detail in a U.S. Pat. by E. H. Land, No. 3,415,644, entitled, Novel Photographic Products and Processes, film units as at 38 are structured to contain a processing fluid which is spread therewithin to cause the formation of a visible positive image. At the termination of the above-described cocking and processing functions, the control system of camera 10 is automatically shut down to terminate the photographic cycle.

Turning to FIG. 3, the control events carried out by a the instrumentalities of camera 10 are identified in block diagrammatic fashion. Prior to starting a photographic cycle, the components of camera 10 assume viewing-focusing mode orientations in which exposure mechanism blades and 62 locate openings 64 and 66 to establish an aperture of maximum available size, as provided by a de-energization of solenoid 100. Additionally, the exposure plane of camera 10 at 38 is secured as a consequence of reflex component 40 being latched at position 40'. This initial status is revealed at blocks 170 and 172.

Once a scene is appropriately framed and focused, start button 12 is momentarily depressed to close a switch and energize solenoid 100. As solenoid is energized, walking beam 74 is rotated against the bias of spring 86 to block the optical path. This event is depicted at block 174.

When exposure chamber 30 is secured by the optical path, motor is initially energized to release reflex component 40 for movement from position 40 into position 40". This activity is depicted at block 176.

Following a period of time adequate for component 40 to each position 40" as depicted at delay block 178, an exposure is commenced with the de-energization of solenoid 100 to release blades 60 and 62, thereby permitting openings 64 and 66 to define progressively enlarging apertures. This exposure activity is depicted at block 180. Note additionally, that the exposure mode performance of the camera commences following delay 178. The light sensing network of the camera provides a signal when an appropriate aperture is defined by blades 60 and 62, which signal causes the reenergization of solenoid 100 to terminate an exposure by closing blades 60 and 62. This exposure termination is depicted at block 182. Note that the exposure mode of the camera terminates at this point and processing as shown at 184 as well as cocking activity ensues at 186.

When processing and cocking is completed, the control system of camera 10 is shut down, solenoid 100 is de-energized and blades 60 and 62 reassume their viewing-focusing mode positions. The latter deenergization of solenoid 100 is depicted at block 188.

While the above cataloged operational events of a photographic cycle are carried out, the control arrangement of the invention provides for an automatic commitment to completion of that cycle following a momentary depression of start button 12. The invention further provides for a period wherein the operator may optionally abort the photographic cycle. Preferably, this optional portion of the cycle terminates with the initial closure blades 60 and 62. This optional portion of the cycle is labled in FIG. 3. With the latching arrangement, automatic shutdown at the termination of a given photographic cycle is facilitated with the deactivation of the latching feature. This de-activation also is labeled in the figure as commencing with the final de-energization of solenoid 100 to open the exposure mechanism blades 60 and 62.

Referring to FIG. 4, a control circuit for operating camera in accordance with the above-described program is depicted. As noted earlier, a photographic cycle is commenced with the depression of a start button 12. This depression serves to close a switch designated S in the figure. Switch S is normally biased towards an open circuit condition. Closure of switch S, activates a primary power line 200. Line 200 is connected with the positive side of a battery 202. The opposite side of battery 202 is connected through line 204 to ground.

When activated, line 200 serves to energize a latching function indicated generally at 206. Upon being energized, latching function 206 assumes a first energization state providing an operator option for energizing the remainder of the control circuit through an auxiliary power line system. The first energization state is established through the interaction of two PNP pass transistors Q and Q which selectively operate to regulate the conductive status of a gate controlled thyristor device having a latching characteristic, such as a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) as at 208.

During the noted first energization state, both transistors Q, and Q are mutually forwardly biased. For instance, when switch S is closed, primary power line 200 is connected with line 238 which, in turn, is connected through level setting resistors 240 and 242 to ground. Resistors 240 and 242 provide a voltage level adjustment to establish a biasing potential and resulting gating current into the gate at line 236 of SCR 208. Thus gated, SCR 208 is rendered conductive. The cathode of SCR 208 is connected by a line 226 through level setting resistor 228 to ground, while its anode is coupled by line 244 through a diode 246 to the base of transistor 0 The emitter of transistor Q is coupled along lines 230 and 230 to primary line 200, while its collector is connected along line 223 to auxiliary power line 234 from line 223. Thus connected, a conducting SCR 208 draws anode current through the emitter-base junction of transistor Q diode 246 and line 244. This current also serves to saturate transistor Q Thus saturated, transistor Q effectively connects lines 222, 223, and 234 to primary power line 200, and, additionally, completes a signal path into a pass line 222. Pass line 222 is connected between line 223 and the emitter of transistor Q while the collector thereof is connected by p'ass line 224 to line 226 located on the cathode side of SCR 208. Transistor Q is now turned on by current flowing from line 220 through its base-emitter junction, thence to ground through a network including line 210, diode 212, bias resistor 214, line 210, line 216, line 218, line 220 and a closed switch 5,. Switch S, corresponds with that described in connection with FIG. 1, the switch remaining closed until reflex component 40 moves initially from its position 40'. When transistor Q is forwardly biased, conduction is permitted through pass lines 222 and 224. In effect, pass lines 223 and 224 can be considered to connect transistor O in parallel with line 224 containing SCR 208.

In view of the noted pass line activity, SCR 208, while remaining gated, conducts under a potential drop and biasing current flow of insufficient levels to permit it to latch" or maintain conduction once gated,- The nonsustaining, low-base current flow from transistor Q through line 224 as well as the insufficient potential drop across SCR 208 being occasioned, as noted, by the forward biasing of transistor Q, and consequent activation of pass lines 222 and 224. Diode 246 is present in line 244 to assure that the voltage drop across SCR 208 is such as to maintain its unlatched condition during the noted first energization state.

The energization of auxiliary power line 234, in turn, energizes branch power line 250, also energizing branch power line 252. Branch power lines 250 and 252, when so energized, establish the initial conditions at the input and output terminals of the components on the control circuit assuring the commencement of a photographic cycle. These initial inputs and outputs for multi-function gates A, B and C are depicted in Boolean enumeration in FIG. 5 at event No 1. For purposes of understanding the tabulations of FIG. 5, as well as to facilitate the description to follow, when the inputs or outputs of such components are at ground reference potential, they are referred to as low, and/or such output is digitally indicated as 0. Conversely, when these inputs and outputs assume or approach the voltage status of power line 200, they are referred to as being high and are given the binary designation 1. Further, the operational events as tabulated and numbered in FIG. 5 are again identified by the same numeration in FIG. 6 wherein the open and closed status of switches S, through S, of the circuit as well as the energization status of various components thereof are shown in comparative time scale fashion. It may be noted further, that certain of the gate input terminals receive common signals. These common terminals are identified by letters a-d. Additionally, the outputs of multifunction GATES A, B and C are identified respectively as t t and t Energization of branch power line 250 at the commencement of a photographic cycle serves to establish those input conditions shown as event No. 1 of FIG. 5 at the input terminals of multi-function power GATES A and B. These input conditions are derived both from the positions of the switches within the circuit as well as from the output of a light sensitive exposure control network depicted generally at 260. More particularly, the c gate input terminals of GATES A and B are low and are derived respectively form lines 262 and 264. Line 264 is coupled through line 266 to the output of a Schmitt trigger 268. Schmitt trigger 268 may be of conventional design, having a normally non-conductive input stage and a normally conductive output stage. Energized from branch power line 252 through line 270 and coupled to ground through line 272, the output at 266 of Schmitt trigger 268 remains low until a signal is received at its input 274 which is at least equal to a predetermined reference level. Upon receipt of such signal, the output at line 266 assumes a high status. Accordingly, common gate input 0 remains low pending the triggering of Schmitt trigger 268.

Gate input terminal b of GATE A exhibits a low state by virtue of its connection through line 276 and resistor 277 to ground. Additionally, this status is permitted as a result of its connection through lines 278 and 280 to switch S the switch remaining open until such time as blades 60 and 62 of exposure mechanism 54 are fully closed.

Common gate input terminals a of GATES A and B are initially low as a result of their connection from along lines 282 and 284 to the output of another Schmitt trigger 286. Schmitt trigger 286 is energized through line 288 from branch power line 250 and is coupled to ground through line 290. Similar to Schmitt trigger 268, the output of Schmitt trigger 286 is normally low and will assume a high status in response to the receipt at its input 292 of a signal above a predetermined triggering or threshold level. The status of input 292 is regulated by an exposure control signal generated at network 260.

The resultant initial output t of GATE A which is present at line 294 is high and is imposed upon the base of an NPN transistor Q The emitter of transistor O is coupled along line 296 to ground, while its collector is connected to line 298. Line 298, in turn, connects the' excitation winding 300 of solenoid 100 to primary power line 200. Solenoid 100 is designated functionally in FIG. 4 by a dashed boundary. The high status at line 294 serves to forward bias the base-emitter junction of transistor Q thereby energizing winding 300 to cause exposure mechanism 54 to block the optical path of camera 10. The output 1 of GATE B is low at the commencement of a photographic cycle and is coupled through a current limiting resistor 302 and line 304 to line 298. GATE B serves a powering down function wherein solenoid 100 is energized at a lower current level when the plunger thereof is in its fully retracted position. To carry this out, GATE B diverts solenoid energizing current through limiting resistor 302. When transistor Q is forward biased, however, this diversion through resistor 302 is insignificant. The powering down feature of the control system is described and claimed in a copending application for US. Pat. application by C. H. Biber and E. K. Shenk entitled, Photographic Apparatus with Solenoid Powered Instrumentalities, Ser. No. 163,948, filed July 19, 1971 and assigned in common herewith.

Solenoid 100 being energized, blades 60 and 62 are driven to their fully closed position and when this position is reached, contacts 146 and 148 of switch S are closed (FIG. 2). The closure of switch S alters the b gate input terminal states at line 278 from a low to a high. In consequence, as shown at Event No. 2 in FIGS. 5 and 6, the output t of GATE A is converted to a low status, thereby reverse biasing transistor Q As transistor Q is turned off, energization of winding 300 is con tinued at a reduced current level through resistor 302 and GATE B. A change of the b gate input terminal state from a low to a high also alters the output t;, of GATE C. During the first event of a photographic cycle, the output t at line 310 of GATE C is high. This high output is established as a result of a low present at line 312 and introduced to input terminal a. Line 312 is connected to line 282, the latter providing a common coupling of the corresponding inputs of GATES A and B. Gate input terminal d remains low in consequence of "its connection through lines 218, 220 and.closed switch S to ground. Input terminal 12, being coupled to line 280 and switch S alters from a low state to a high state upon the closure of switch S The resultant low output i of GATE C, when introduced through line 310, signals a motor control function 314 to energize motor 120. Control function 314 is energized from primary power line 200 through line 316 and is coupled to ground through line 318. The resultant energization of motor 120 drives phase control cam 126 from gear train 124 to effect the release or unlatching of reflex component 40 for movement from its viewing-focusing position 40 (FIG. 1). When reflex component 40 begins to rise from position 40', tab 132 of ram 122 is released from contact with leaf 134 of switch S switch S opens.

As disclosed as event No. 3 in FIGS. 5 and 6, the opening of switch S. alters the status of input terminal d of GATE C to a high condition and the resultant output t of the gate becomes high. A high status at line 310 serves to signal motor control function 314 to deenergize motor 120.

Inasmuch as component 40 is uncovering the exposure plane of the camera during its upward movement, latching function 206 now operates to commit the control system of the camera 10 to completion of a photographic cycle. As noted earlier, the base of transistor Q, is coupled from along lines 210, 216, 218 and 220 to switch S When switch S opens, transistor 0, draws insufficient base current to maintain a forwardly biased condition. This reverse biasing of transistor Q isolates pass lines 222 and 224 and as a consequence, adequate sustaining current as well as sustaining voltage is presented across SCR 208. SCR 208 then latches to provide continuous conduction in the absence of a gating input from line 236. As SCR 208 conducts, transistor O is held in a forward biased condition, auxiliary voltage line 234 being energized from line 223. This latched conditionof SCR 208 and transistor Q represents a second energization state of latching function 206.

During the second energization state of latching function 206, line 320 including diode 322 and connecting lines 232 and 210 serve to assure the maintenance of a reverse biased condition at transistor 0,.

As a reflex component 40 closely approaches its exposure mode position at 40", switch S connected within line 328 between line 252 and ground, is opened in consequence of the movement of ram 122. Represented as event No. 4 in FIGS. 5 and 6, the opening of switch S serves to activate an R-C timing network identified generally at 330. Formed of a timing resistor 332 and a timing capacitor 334 coupled within line 336 between ground and branch power line 252, network 330 serves to impose a delay to the commencement of exposure regulation. This delay is selected having a time constant sufficient to permit reflex component 40 to fully seat at its position 40". Network 330 is activated upon removal of a shunt about capacitor 334 which is constituted by a line 338 and diode 340 and connected from a point intermediate capacitor 334 and resistor 332 to ground through a diode 340 and switch S Diode 340 serves to isolate line 338 from spurious signals and the like. Similarly a diode 342 connected at line 328 above switch S isolates line 252 from spurious signals.

Following an appropriate time-out of network 330, a threshold signal is developed at input 274 of differential comparator 268, thereby triggering the comparator to alter its output at line 266 to a high status. This high status is introduced to line 264 to simultaneously alter the state of all common gate inputs 0 to a high or 1 status. Such alteration changes the output 1 of GATE B to a high status, thereby abruptly terminating current flow in line 298 and de-energizing winding 300 of solenoid 100. With this de-energization, blades and 62 of exposure mechanism 54 commence to open under the force of spring 86.

Simultaneously with the de-energization of winding 300, a signal is imposed from line 264 through an inverter 348 to trigger an electronic switch shown generally at 350. When so triggered, switch 350 removes a shunt established by lines 352 and 354 across a timing capacitor 356. The removal of this shunt activates light sensitive network 260.

Network 260 includes a photovoltaic cell 358 positioned within camera 10 behind openings 68 and 70 of exposure mechanism 54 and connected with the input of an operational, differential type amplifier 360 by lines 362 and 364. Timing capacitor 356 is coupled within a feedback path between the output 366 of amplifier 360 and its input at line 362.

Described in greater detail in a U.S. Pat. by J. P. Burgarella, entitled, Automatic Exposure Control System withFast Linear Response, No. 3,620,143, the output of this light sensing arrangement at line 366 represents an integrated valuation of scene lighting as witnessed at the optical path of camera 10. This output is varied in accordance with the sensitometric properties of film being exposed by a second amplification stage 368 operating in conjunction with gain adjusting variable resistor 370 and calibrating resistor 372, the latter being positioned within a feedback path line 374. The noted film speed and calibration adjustment of the output at line 366 is described in greater detail and claimed in a U.S. Pat. by J. P. Burgarella, entitled, Exposure Control System, No. 3,641,891.

The adjusted output from network 260 is presented along line 292 to Schmitt trigger 286. When the signal value at line 292 reaches the threshold or trigger level of Schmitt trigger 286, the output thereof at line 284 converts from a low to a high state. This conversion is represented in FIGS. and 6 as operational event No. 6. As displayed in those figures, the resultant high output at line 284 alters the status of common gate input terminal a to a corresponding high status. The resultant outputs of GATES A and B are converted. For instance, output t of GATE A is changed to a high status and output t of GATE B is changed to low status. A high output at line 294 forward biases the base-emitter junction of transistor Q thereby energizing solenoid winding 300 from line 298, in turn, causing solenoid 100 to block the optical path of camera by closing blades 60 and 62. This action terminates an exposure interval.

As blades 60 and 62 are closed, switch S closes to alter the status of input terminals b at GATES A and C from high to a low states: As depicted by event No. 7 in FIGS. 5 and 6, the latter input alteration changes the output t of Gate A to a low status, thereby turning off transistor Q The earlier described power-down function performed by GATE B continues the energization of winding 300 at a lower current level. In addition to this power-down feature, the change of status of input terminals b also changes the output t of GATE C to a low status, thereby activating motor control function 314 to, in turn, energize motor 120. Thus energized, motor 120 rotates cycle phase cam 126 to drive ram 122 rearwardly, thereby cocking or returning reflex component 40 to position 40'. Simultaneously, an exposed film unit 38 is processed through rotating process rolls 160 and 162.

As reflex component 40 is driven from position 40",

switch S,- is closed, thereby reactivating the shunt imposed by line 338 about timing capacitor 334. The output of Schmitt trigger 268 returns to a low status to, in

turn, change the state of common gate input terminals 0 to a low status.

When reflex component 40 is seated in its viewingfocusing position at 40', tab 132 of ram 122 recloses switch S by urging leaf 134 into contact with leaf 136. This action changes the condition of gate input terminal d from a high to a low status to, in turn, change output at line 310 to a high status, thereby de-energizing motor control function 314 to stop motor 120.

The final closing of switch S, also reasserts forward bias at transistor Q of latching function 206. This is carried out, as before, by bringing line 210, coupled to the base of transistor Q, to ground level as a result of its connection with switch S through lines 216, 218 and 220. When transistor 0 is drawn into conduction, the pass function of lines 222, 223, and 224 is reasserted and the voltage drop across SCR 208 is diminished below its sustaining level. Inasmuch as no gating current is supplied from switch S the components of latching function 206 as well as the entire circuit are de-energized for shutdown. It may be noted that at shutdown, latching function 206 reassumes its first energization state.

Should switch S, be held in a closed circuit condition throughout a photographic cycle, latching function 206 will remain in its first energization state and the control circuit will progress through an entire photographic cycle without assuming a second energization or latched state. Should switch S, be held in its closed circuit position before and following the termination of a photographic cycle, latching function 206 will remain in the noted first energization state, however, the control circuit will not permit camera 10 to progress through a next succeeding photographic cycle. Referring to FIG. 5 representing a condition for a continually closed switch S note that at the event No. 8 a closure of switch S.,, the gate input states to motor control GATE C are different than the corresponding inputs for event No. 1 at the commencements of a photographic cycle. In particular, the output 284 of Schmitt trigger 86 remains high, thereby holding gate input terminal a at a high status. With such status of input terminal a at GATE C, the output of GATE C remains high and motor control function 314 is incapable of energiz- 7 ing motor 120. Without such energization, reflex component 40 cannot move from its viewing-focusing position at 40' and switch S cannot be opened. While blades 60 and 62 of exposure mechanism 54 remain closed as long as switch S is held down, camera 10 will not progress through a next succeeding photographic cycle. Upon release of switch S, to an open circuit condition and consequent de-energization of the control circuit, the input terminal condition to the gating functions are re-aligned to permit the generation of a next succeeding photographic cycle.

It readily can be seen that many variations and modifications of the present invention are possible in the light of the aforementioned teachings, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and arrangement of components may be made to suit requirements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the instant invention may be practiced in a manner otherwise than is specifically described herein.

What is claimed is:

l. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events;

control means energizable from said source to selec tively effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order;

manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; and

latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following the actuation of said start switch means to effect said closed circuit condition at least until completion of said first operational event so as to commit said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event.

2. The control system of claim 1 in which said latch means is operative to selectively interrupt the said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.

3. The control system of claim 1 in which:

said instrumentality means includes an exposure mechanism selectively actuable to block and unblock an optical path;

said control means includes control network means operable during a photographic cycle to generate a signal for effecting the actuation of said exposure mechanism to block said optical path to terminate a photographic exposure, said control means being operative to inhibit the carrying out of a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition and said signal is generated.

4. The control system of claim 1 in which:

said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event; and

said latch means is operative to selectively discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source in response to said cycle phase switch means actuation.

5. The control system of claim 4 in which said control means is operative to prevent the repetition of a said photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition and said phase cycle switch means is actuated in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.

6. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events;

control means energizable from said source to selectively effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order;

manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; and

latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following the actuation of said start switch means to effect said closed circuit condition at least until completion of said first operational event, said latch means being operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition and to assume a second energization state subsequent to said first event and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition, and being further operative to selectively interrupt the said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.

7. The control system of claim 6 wherein said latch means is operative to assume said first energization state whenever said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during a given said photographic cycle.

8. The control system of claim 6 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is continuously retained in closed circuit condition subsequent to and following the termination of a said photographic cycle.

9. The control system of claim 6 in which:

said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event; and

said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said cycle phase switch means is actuated and said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.

10. The control system of claim 9 wherein said latch means is operative to discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source in response to said cycle phase switch means actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

11. The control system of claim 6 in which:

said control means includes cycle phase switch means initially actuable following said first operational event and subsequently actuable in conjunction with said last operational event;

said latch means is operative to assume said second energization state when said cycle phase switch means is initially actuated and said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

12. The control system of claim 1 1 wherein said latch means is operative to assume said first energization state prior to said cycle phase switch means initial actuation and when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.

13. The control system of claim 12 wherein said latch means is operative during a given said photographic cycle to assume only said first energization state when said cycle phase switch means is subsequently actuated and said start switch means is in closed circuit condition.

14. The control system of claim 13 wherein said latch means is operative to discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source of electrical energy in response to said cycle phase switch means subsequent actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

15. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events;

control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means;

latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event;

said control means including circuit components operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.

16. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events;

control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means;

latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition and only following the completion of the first of said operational events for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event;

said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.

17. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety energized froma source of electrical energy,

said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means;

latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event, said latch means being further operative to interrupt said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition;

said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.

18. Photographic apparatus comprising:

means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed;

exposure mechanism means actuable to block and unblock said optical path to effect the exposure of photographic material at an exposure plane; reflex means actuable to convert said optical path between viewing and exposure mode configurations;

a source of electrical energy;

control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex means in accordance with a predetermined order of operational events to define a photographic cycle;

switch means manually actuable between open circuit and closed circuit conditions for energizing said control means at least during a select initial portion of said photographic cycle; and

latch means present in fixed circuit configuration and coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following said select initial portion of said photographic cycle.

19. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which said latch means is operative to selectively terminate the said energization of said control means to terminate a said photographic cycle.

20. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which said latch means is operative to effect the continuous energization of said control means when said reflex means commences a said optical path conversion from said viewing mode configuration to said exposure mode configuration.

21. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which:

said control means includes a control network having an output signal for effecting a said actuation of said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path so as to terminate a said exposure, said control means being operative to prevent the repetition of a said photographic cycle when said switch means is retained in said closed circuit condition and said control network generates said output signal.

22. Photographic apparatus of a variety incorporating a source of electrical energy, comprising:

means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed; exposure mechanism means actuable to block and unblock said optical path to effect the exposure of photographic material at an exposure plane;

reflex means actuable to convert said optical path between viewing and exposure mode configurations;

control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex means in accordance with a predetermined order of operational events to define a photographic cycle;

switch means manually actuable between open circuit and closed circuit conditions for energizing said control means at least during a select initial portion of said photographic cycle;

said control means being operative to actuate said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path in response to the actuation of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition at the commencement of a said photographic cycle, and to actuate said reflex means to convert said optical path from said viewing mode to said exposure mode configuration in response to said blocking of said optical path; and

latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source in response to said reflex means actuation.

23. The photographic apparatus of claim 22 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state in response to said reflex means actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

24. The photographic apparatus of claim 23 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is continuously retained in said closed circuit condition subsequent to and following the termination of a said photographic cycle.

25. The photographic apparatus of claim 22 in which:

said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in response to the said actuation of said reflex means converting said optical path from said viewing mode to said exposure mode configuration; and

said latch means is operative to effect said continuous energization of said control means in response to said cycle phase switch actuation.

26. The photographic apparatus of claim 25 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state in response to said cycle phase switch actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

- 27. The photographic apparatus of claim 26 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.

28. The photographic apparatus of claim 27 in which said control means includes a control network for generating an output signal for effecting an actuation of said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path to terminate a said exposure; said control means being operative to prevent said apparatus from carrying out a next succeeding said photographic cycle in the presence of said output signal and when said latch means is in said first energization state.

29. A photographic camera of a variety utilizing a source of electrical energy comprising:

means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed at an exposure plane;

means for supporting photosensitive material at said exposure plane;

exposure mechanism means selectively energizable from said source to block and unblock said optical path for regulating the exposure of said photosensitive material;

reflex component means movable between a securing position blocking the passage of light to said exposure plane and an exposure position orienting said optical path to effect said exposure of said photosensitive material;

control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex component means in a manner defining a given photographic cycle wherein said exposure mechanism means is initially energized to block said optical path at the commencement of a said cycle whereupon said reflex component means is moved initially from said securing position into said exposure position, following which said exposure mechanism means is de-energized and subsequently selectively energized to define an interval of exposure, said subsequent energization being maintained to block said optical path while said reflex component means is returned to said securing position, said cycle then being terminated with a subsequent de-energization of said exposure mechanism means;

start switch means manually actuable to move from an open circuit condition to a closed circuit condition energizing said control means; and

latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting a selective continuous energization of said control means commencing with said reflex component means initial movement and continuing until said cycle termination.

30. The photographic camera of claim 29 wherein said latch means is operative to selectively terminate the said energization of said control means to effect said cycle termination.

31. The photographic camera of claim 30 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state with said commencement of said reflex means initial movement, and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.

32. The photographic camera of claim 31 wherein said latch means is operative to effect said cycle termination only when in said second energization state.

33. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said apparatus being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising:

instrumentality means actuable from a viewing mode condition to perform said operational events;

control means energizable from said source to fully automatically effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order, said control means causing said instrumentality means to be automatically returned to said viewing mode condition at the termination of the last of said operational events; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means;

said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.

34. A photographic camera of a variety utilizing a source of electrical energy comprising:

means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed at an exposure plane;

means for supporting photosensitive material at said exposure plane;

exposure mechanism means selectively energizable from said source to block and unblock said optical path for regulating the exposure of said photosensitive material;

reflex component means movable between a securing position blocking the passage of light to said exposure plane and an exposure position orienting said optical path to effect said exposure of said photosensitive material;

start switch means manually actuable to move from an open circuit condition to a closed circuit condition;

control means energizable from said source in response to said start switch means actuation for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex component means in a manner defining a given photographic cycle wherein said exposure mechanism means is initially energized to block said optical path at the commencement of a said cycle whereupon said reflex component means is moved initially from said securing position into said exposure position, following which said exposure mechanism means is de-energized and subsequently selectively energized to define an interval of exposure, said subsequent energization being maintained to block said optical path while said reflex component means is returned to said securing position, said cycle then being terminated with a subsequent de-energization of said exposure mechanism means, said control means being further operative to prevent the completion of a next succeeding photographic cycle when said subsequent exposure mechanism means de-energization has occurred and said start switch means is retained in said closed circuit condition prior to and beyond said termination of said given photographic cycle; and

latch means coupled with said start switch means and ment and continuing until said cycle termination. 

1. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to selectively effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; and latch means coupled with said start switch means and said Control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following the actuation of said start switch means to effect said closed circuit condition at least until completion of said first operational event so as to commit said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event.
 2. The control system of claim 1 in which said latch means is operative to selectively interrupt the said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.
 3. The control system of claim 1 in which: said instrumentality means includes an exposure mechanism selectively actuable to block and unblock an optical path; said control means includes control network means operable during a photographic cycle to generate a signal for effecting the actuation of said exposure mechanism to block said optical path to terminate a photographic exposure, said control means being operative to inhibit the carrying out of a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition and said signal is generated.
 4. The control system of claim 1 in which: said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event; and said latch means is operative to selectively discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source in response to said cycle phase switch means actuation.
 5. The control system of claim 4 in which said control means is operative to prevent the repetition of a said photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition and said phase cycle switch means is actuated in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.
 6. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to selectively effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; and latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following the actuation of said start switch means to effect said closed circuit condition at least until completion of said first operational event, said latch means being operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition and to assume a second energization state subsequent to said first event and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition, and being further operative to selectively interrupt the said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event.
 7. The control system of claim 6 wherein said latch means is operative to assume said first energization state whenever said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during a given said photographic cycle.
 8. The control system of claim 6 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is continuously retained in closed circuit condition subsequent to and following the termination of a said photographic cycle.
 9. The control system of claim 6 in which: said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event; And said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said cycle phase switch means is actuated and said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.
 10. The control system of claim 9 wherein said latch means is operative to discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source in response to said cycle phase switch means actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 11. The control system of claim 6 in which: said control means includes cycle phase switch means initially actuable following said first operational event and subsequently actuable in conjunction with said last operational event; said latch means is operative to assume said second energization state when said cycle phase switch means is initially actuated and said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 12. The control system of claim 11 wherein said latch means is operative to assume said first energization state prior to said cycle phase switch means initial actuation and when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.
 13. The control system of claim 12 wherein said latch means is operative during a given said photographic cycle to assume only said first energization state when said cycle phase switch means is subsequently actuated and said start switch means is in closed circuit condition.
 14. The control system of claim 13 wherein said latch means is operative to discontinue the said energization of said control means from said source of electrical energy in response to said cycle phase switch means subsequent actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 15. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event; said control means including circuit components operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.
 16. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit Condition and only following the completion of the first of said operational events for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event; said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.
 17. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety energized from a source of electrical energy, said system being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; latch means responsive to said start switch means actuation and coupled with said control means for effecting a continuous energization of said control means from said source following the movement of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition for committing said control means to effect said instrumentality means performance through said photographic cycle last event, said latch means being further operative to interrupt said energization of said control means from said source in conjunction with the performance of said last operational event and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition; said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.
 18. Photographic apparatus comprising: means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed; exposure mechanism means actuable to block and unblock said optical path to effect the exposure of photographic material at an exposure plane; reflex means actuable to convert said optical path between viewing and exposure mode configurations; a source of electrical energy; control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex means in accordance with a predetermined order of operational events to define a photographic cycle; switch means manually actuable between open circuit and closed circuit conditions for energizing said control means at least during a select initial portion of said photographic cycle; and latch means present in fixed circuit configuration and coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source following said select initial portion of said photographic cycle.
 19. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which said latch means is operative to selectively terminate the said energization of said control means to terminate a said photographic cycle.
 20. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which said latch means is operative to effect the continuous energization of said control means when said reflex means commences a said optical path conversion from said viewing mode configuration to said exposure mode configuration.
 21. The photographic apparatus of claim 18 in which: said control means includes a control network having an output signal for effecting a said actuation of said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path so as to terminate a said exposure, said control means being operative to prevent the repetition of a said photographic cycle when said switch means is retained in said closed circuit condition and said control network generates said output signal.
 22. Photographic apparatus of a variety incorporating a source of electrical energy, comprising: means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed; exposure mechanism means actuable to block and unblock said optical path to effect the exposure of photographic material at an exposure plane; reflex means actuable to convert said optical path between viewing and exposure mode configurations; control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex means in accordance with a predetermined order of operational events to define a photographic cycle; switch means manually actuable between open circuit and closed circuit conditions for energizing said control means at least during a select initial portion of said photographic cycle; said control means being operative to actuate said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path in response to the actuation of said start switch means to said closed circuit condition at the commencement of a said photographic cycle, and to actuate said reflex means to convert said optical path from said viewing mode to said exposure mode configuration in response to said blocking of said optical path; and latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting the continuous energization of said control means from said source in response to said reflex means actuation.
 23. The photographic apparatus of claim 22 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state in response to said reflex means actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 24. The photographic apparatus of claim 23 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is continuously retained in said closed circuit condition subsequent to and following the termination of a said photographic cycle.
 25. The photographic apparatus of claim 22 in which: said control means includes cycle phase switch means actuable in response to the said actuation of said reflex means converting said optical path from said viewing mode to said exposure mode configuration; and said latch means is operative to effect said continuous energization of said control means in response to said cycle phase switch actuation.
 26. The photographic apparatus of claim 25 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is actuated to assume said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state in response to said cycle phase switch actuation and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 27. The photographic apparatus of claim 26 wherein said latch means is operative to assume only said first energization state when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition.
 28. The photographic apparatus of claim 27 in which said control means includes a control network for generating an output signal for effecting an actuation of said exposure mechanism means to block said optical path to terminate a said exposure; said control means being operative to prevent said apparatus from carrying out a next succeeding said photographic cycle in the presence of said output signal and when said latch means is in said first energization state.
 29. A photographic camera of a variety utilizing a source of electrical energy comprising: means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed at an exposure plane; means for supporting photosensitive material at said exposure plane; exposure mechanism means selectively energizable from said source to block and unblock said optical path for regulating the exposure of said photosensitive material; reflex component means movable between a securiNg position blocking the passage of light to said exposure plane and an exposure position orienting said optical path to effect said exposure of said photosensitive material; control means energizable from said source for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex component means in a manner defining a given photographic cycle wherein said exposure mechanism means is initially energized to block said optical path at the commencement of a said cycle whereupon said reflex component means is moved initially from said securing position into said exposure position, following which said exposure mechanism means is de-energized and subsequently selectively energized to define an interval of exposure, said subsequent energization being maintained to block said optical path while said reflex component means is returned to said securing position, said cycle then being terminated with a subsequent de-energization of said exposure mechanism means; start switch means manually actuable to move from an open circuit condition to a closed circuit condition energizing said control means; and latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting a selective continuous energization of said control means commencing with said reflex component means initial movement and continuing until said cycle termination.
 30. The photographic camera of claim 29 wherein said latch means is operative to selectively terminate the said energization of said control means to effect said cycle termination.
 31. The photographic camera of claim 30 wherein said latch means is operative to assume a first energization state when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition, and to assume a second energization state with said commencement of said reflex means initial movement, and when said start switch means is in said open circuit condition.
 32. The photographic camera of claim 31 wherein said latch means is operative to effect said cycle termination only when in said second energization state.
 33. A control system for photographic apparatus of a variety including a source of electrical energy, said apparatus being actuable to serially perform operational events in a predetermined order from first to last defining a photographic cycle, comprising: instrumentality means actuable from a viewing mode condition to perform said operational events; control means energizable from said source to fully automatically effect said instrumentality means actuation to perform said operational events in accordance with said predetermined order, said control means causing said instrumentality means to be automatically returned to said viewing mode condition at the termination of the last of said operational events; manually actuable start switch means movable between an open circuit condition and a closed circuit condition for selectively connecting said source of electrical energy with said control means; said control means being operative to prevent said control system from carrying out a next succeeding photographic cycle when said start switch means is in said closed circuit condition during the performance of said last operational event.
 34. A photographic camera of a variety utilizing a source of electrical energy comprising: means defining an optical path for imaging a scene to be photographed at an exposure plane; means for supporting photosensitive material at said exposure plane; exposure mechanism means selectively energizable from said source to block and unblock said optical path for regulating the exposure of said photosensitive material; reflex component means movable between a securing position blocking the passage of light to said exposure plane and an exposure position orienting said optical path to effect said exposure of said photosensitive material; start switch means manually actuable to move from an open circuit condition to a closed circuit condition; control means energizable from said source in response to said start switch means actuation for regulating said exposure mechanism means and said reflex component means in a manner defining a given photographic cycle wherein said exposure mechanism means is initially energized to block said optical path at the commencement of a said cycle whereupon said reflex component means is moved initially from said securing position into said exposure position, following which said exposure mechanism means is de-energized and subsequently selectively energized to define an interval of exposure, said subsequent energization being maintained to block said optical path while said reflex component means is returned to said securing position, said cycle then being terminated with a subsequent de-energization of said exposure mechanism means, said control means being further operative to prevent the completion of a next succeeding photographic cycle when said subsequent exposure mechanism means de-energization has occurred and said start switch means is retained in said closed circuit condition prior to and beyond said termination of said given photographic cycle; and latch means coupled with said start switch means and said control means for effecting a selective continuous energization of said control means commencing with said reflex component means initial movement and continuing until said cycle termination. 